Related Problems of the 2015 Honda Odyssey

problem

12/21/wheelchair ramp and kneel function failed with no warning. This engaged safety feature that disables gear shift and keeps car in park. Unable to move car or deploy ramp using back-up override. Called mobility works (authorized vmi dealer). Troubleshooting failed to deploy ramp or kneel function. Told only option was to pop off tab next to gear shift and insert screwdriver to override “park” lock. Fortunately, quadriplegic spouse was not in the vehicle or he would have been trapped. 12/26/23 to 1/3/vehicle inspected at mobility works, technician diagnosed controller board failure and recommended replacement. Told vmi lost supplier for controller board leaving no way to properly restore conversion equipment. On 1/3/24 spoke to vmi technician who confirmed controller board is unavailable. He stated vmi engineering department is trying to develop a workaround for a new controller board. Vmi technician also reported two calls a day for this problem, and that it affects their Chrysler conversion equipment as well. 2/7/telephoned vmi technical support. Told workaround for controller board will not be available for months. Told that if quadriplegic becomes trapped in car to call fire department. Told this is an acceptable solution in the mobility industry if back-up fails. Very cavalier, comparing to Ford no longer making fuel pump or fuel hose for his old truck. 4/18/24; 4/25/emailed vmi requesting status of controller board replacement. No response. Conclusion: the controller board failed without warning, causing all conversion equipment to fail, including back-up override, and potentially trapping power wheelchair dependent individuals in their vehicles. Vmi has failed to provide parts for repair of its conversion equipment. Vmi authorized dealer estimates $1,000 to bypass controller board. This will cause certain accessibility functions to no longer work. The vehicle has been unusable for quadriplegic spouse since December 2023.